COURSE OVERVIEW:

The meaning of pipeline leak detection and integrity verification encompasses the suite of technologies and analytical procedures used to identify the loss of containment and confirm the structural soundness of a pipeline system. In an era of heightened environmental sensitivity and strict regulatory oversight, the ability to detect small leaks quickly is critical for minimizing impact and maintaining a social license to operate. This course examines the principles of mass balance, pressure wave analysis, and external sensing technologies that form the backbone of modern leak detection systems (LDS).

The scope of this training involves a comprehensive evaluation of both internal (software-based) and external (hardware-based) detection methods as defined by API RP 1130 and API RP 1175. Participants will explore the technical trade-offs between sensitivity, accuracy, reliability, and robustness. The course goes beyond simple detection to include integrity verification methods such as hydrostatic testing, pneumatic testing, and the use of fiber optic cables for real-time monitoring of acoustic and thermal signatures along the pipeline right-of-way.

The coverage of the program is structured across eleven modules, beginning with the fundamental hydraulics of leak flow and concluding with the development of an integrated leak response plan. Key topics include the application of Computational Pipeline Monitoring (CPM), the use of PIG-mounted leak detection sensors, and the role of satellite and aerial surveillance in integrity verification. The course also addresses the "human in the loop," focusing on alarm management and the decision-making processes required when a potential leak is signaled by the system.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Classify different leak detection technologies based on their operational principles.
• Understand the requirements of API RP 1130 for Computational Pipeline Monitoring.
• Evaluate the performance metrics of a leak detection system: Sensitivity and Accuracy.
• Analyze the hydraulic behavior of a pipeline during a leak event.
• Compare the effectiveness of Mass Balance versus Negative Pressure Wave methods.
• Implement fiber optic sensing for distributed acoustic and thermal monitoring.
• Utilize vapor sensing and acoustic "smart balls" for small leak identification.
• Perform integrity verification through hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure testing.
• Assess the impact of slack line flow on leak detection system reliability.
• Develop an Alarm Management Plan to reduce "nuisance" alarms.
• Conduct a gap analysis on existing leak detection capabilities against industry standards.
• Formulate a rapid response and isolation strategy for confirmed leak events.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Pipeline Control Room Operators, Integrity Engineers, SCADA Engineers, Environmental Compliance Officers, and Maintenance Managers.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.